How Are Countries Like Greenland and Serbia Transforming Global Tourism by Welcoming More Travelers to Their Hidden Gems? - Travel And Tour World

How Are Countries Like Greenland and Serbia Transforming Global Tourism by Welcoming More Travelers to Their Hidden Gems? - Travel And Tour World

Saturday, February 22, 2025

In response to widespread protests against overtourism in popular European destinations, several countries are now focusing on attracting more visitors to lesser-known spots. While major tourist hotspots such as Venice’s St. Mark’s Square, Barcelona’s overcrowded streets, and the cliffs of Italy’s Cinque Terre often host more tourists than locals, there are many places that offer rich cultural experiences without the overwhelming crowds. These locations, many of which are still developing their tourism infrastructure, are eager for more visitors, and the tourism they receive plays a crucial role in their economies.

The Positive Impact of Tourism in Lesser-Developed Countries

In less developed countries, tourism has been a lifeline, providing much-needed jobs, training, and infrastructure. While overtourism can sometimes cause damage to the local environment and culture, well-managed tourism provides a steady economic stream that can help to fund community development, preservation of culture, and improved infrastructure. When balanced, tourism can connect people, foster cross-cultural understanding, and contribute to sustainable development. Here are four destinations that are welcoming tourists while emphasizing sustainability and local growth.

Greenland: Harnessing Tourism for Growth

Greenland is preparing for a significant boost in tourism with the construction of two new international airports. Nuuk, the capital, will welcome direct international flights by the end of this year, and Ilulissat in the northern part of the country will open an international runway by 2026. These developments are expected to increase tourism and, more importantly, boost the economy through the importation of goods and export of local products such as seafood.

Greenland is promoting two types of tourism: adventure tourism and year-round tourism. The adventure segment focuses on activities like whale watching, rock climbing, and camping on the Greenland Ice Sheet. Year-round tourism, however, is largely centered around “dark sky tourism,” with tourists flocking to Greenland for stargazing and northern lights experiences. The country is also making efforts to encourage tourists to visit during winter, when temperatures can dip to -50°C. To make this possible, unique accommodations like sky view cabins and igloos are being set up for tourists who wish to experience the breathtaking auroras.

• Key Tourism Focus Areas:
  • Adventure tourism (whale watching, rock climbing)
  • Year-round dark sky tourism (northern lights)
  • Winter tourism initiatives (sky view cabins, igloos)

Morocco: Preparing for Growth with the 2030 World Cup

As Morocco builds up its tourism infrastructure in preparation for co-hosting the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal, the country plans to double its tourist arrivals to 26 million by 2030. To accommodate the influx of visitors, Morocco is focused on increasing hotel capacity, with new hotels under development, such as the Waldorf Astoria in Tangier and multiple Radisson Hotels opening across the country.

Marrakesh is one of the most popular destinations in Morocco, though it can often feel overcrowded. With the World Cup bringing attention to the country, cities such as Casablanca, Agadir, Fez, and Tangier are seeing renovations and new developments aimed at diversifying tourism. Fez, known for its cultural richness, remains relatively underexplored compared to other Moroccan cities. The areas around Agadir, such as the coastal village of Taghazout, are also growing in popularity for their surf lessons and beautiful beaches.

• Emerging Destinations:
  • Fez (Morocco’s cultural capital)
  • Agadir and Taroudant (authentic cities near popular resort areas)
  • Coastal towns like Taghazout for surfing

Serbia: Sustainable Tourism and Rural Growth

Serbia’s tourism sector has embraced a model focused on sustainability, learning from the successes and failures of neighboring Croatia. The country is working with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council to create projects that promote sensitive, culture-oriented tourism, particularly in rural areas. Serbia is encouraging visitors to experience mountain tourism, ecotourism, and wellness tourism, with its natural springs and mountain resorts becoming increasingly popular.

The growing tourism in Serbia is helping to diversify rural livelihoods and generate economic growth for smaller communities. In the winter, tourists flock to Serbia’s ski resorts, while in summer, hiking trails and birdwatching spots offer eco-tourism opportunities. Novi Sad, the second-largest city, is often recommended for its historic charm and minimal tourism crowds compared to major European capitals.

• Key Tourism Highlights:
  • Rural and mountain tourism
  • Wellness and ecotourism
  • Sustainable tourism development

Georgia: A New Frontier for Tourists

Georgia, nestled between Russia, Turkey, and Azerbaijan on the Black Sea, is expanding its tourism offerings with a ten-year development plan. The government is working on infrastructure projects like improved signage, public transport, and cruise ship ports, aiming to make the country more accessible for tourists, including independent travelers and those with disabilities. Tourism is relatively new to Georgia, but it is quickly gaining recognition for its vibrant culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes.

Tbilisi, the capital, is often highlighted as a must-see destination, with its charming streets, old fortress walls, and impressive museums. Other spots like Georgia’s wine regions, cave towns, and the northern and southern mountains offer a diverse range of activities, from hiking to wine tasting. Tourists can expect a unique blend of Soviet-era architecture, ancient churches, and monasteries, alongside a growing culinary scene that attracts visitors from around the world.

• Emerging Experiences in Georgia:
  • Tbilisi’s vibrant culture and history
  • Wine regions and cave towns
  • Mountain treks and UNESCO-listed sites

The Global Impact of Sustainable Tourism

These countries represent the shift toward more sustainable tourism, which emphasizes local economic growth and cultural preservation over mass tourism. The impact of well-managed tourism on these lesser-known destinations will be far-reaching, benefiting both the host countries and international travelers. For those seeking to avoid the crowded paths of more famous destinations, these emerging spots provide a chance to explore new territories while contributing positively to local economies.

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Tags: Agadir, Casablanca, Georgia, greenland, morocco, serbia, travel and tourism